Chelsea Transfer News: Lionel Messi Sends Message to Pedro After Barcelona Exit

Barcelona star Lionel Messi has sent his best wishes to new Chelsea forward Pedro following the Spaniard's transfer from the Camp Nou to Stamford Bridge.

The Blues recently confirmed the signing of forward Pedro after his long-term links to Manchester United, bringing to an end an 11-year career in Catalonia, per BBC Sport.

Argentine superstar Messi, a team-mate of Pedro's at Barca for his entire Camp Nou career, paid tribute to his friend on his Facebook page following the World Cup winner's switch to Stamford Bridge for £21 million:

Along with Messi, Pedro won five La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues with Barcelona. But he had recently been sidelined under manager Luis Enrique, playing second fiddle to Luis Suarez, Neymar and the four-time Ballon d'Or winner.

Pedro was on the verge of a move to United before his surprise switch to Chelsea, per Sky Sports' Guillem Balague. 

The Blues have picked up an experienced and creative player who should be a fine asset at Stamford Bridge. As well as being a prolific goalscorer, he should also be a terrific foil for Chelsea's other attacking players, per Sky Sports Football:

"

We compare Pedro's 2014/15 stats with Chelsea's other wide players http://t.co/NaUaM5EQFp pic.twitter.com/GamXxfZSTr

— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) August 21, 2015"

Jose Mourinho's side have made a poor start to their Premier League title defence, picking up just one point from their first two games of the season.

However, they are starting to flex their muscles in the transfer window with the close in sight, Pedro being their second signing in a week after defender Baba Rahman.

The Spain international will be eager to make an impact in west London having spent much of his recent Barca career on the bench.

He thanked his former club on his Twitter feed on his arrival at Chelsea and also expressed his happiness with the move:

Along with Eden Hazard and Diego Costa, Pedro could well form a deadly attacking trio at Chelsea, but he will likely need time to adapt to the Premier League.

There is no chance of him being overwhelmed by the move, though, as he has already proven himself at the very highest level, playing alongside the likes of Messi.